From the Pulpit: Sharing truths

Jonathan Paul Hendren has been ministering in churches in some form of a pastoral role since about the age of 18. He came to Cape Girardeau in summer 2008 and now serves the congregation at Cornerstone Assembly of God in Cape Girardeau as the senior pastor.

How long have you been a member of this faith?

I have attended and have been affiliated with the Assemblies of God organization my entire life.

What drew you to serve the church in a leadership role?

Actually, I had planned to attend Ohio State University and become some type of an engineer. God came into my life, and I became a new person. I was drastically changed and delivered from drugs in 1979. Shortly thereafter, I felt that God wanted me to share the truths of his word, the Bible, with others. I enrolled in a Bible college and have served in churches in some form of leadership capacity since.

What education/background/studies did you go through to become a pastor?

I attended Central Bible College in Springfield, Mo., and have a bachelor's degree in Biblical studies. I continue to study, attend conferences and read periodicals to improve myself. I desire to pursue a master's degree in theology.

How many years have you served as a pastor?

I have served as a children's, youth, associate, education, small groups and senior pastor. I have served in a pastoral role for 29 years.

Where are you from and why did you move to Cape Girardeau?

My wife and I basically grew up in central Ohio. Previously, we were serving in Whitefish, Mont. We spent a short time in Illinois and Springfield, Mo., before assuming the role of senior pastor here in Cape Girardeau in July 2008.

What do you think makes this church special?

The people of Cornerstone make the church so special. We have a wide variety of ages, dedicated volunteers, loving and caring individuals that make our church one of the best.

What's your favorite verse and why?

Jeremiah 29:11-13 11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." It is my favorite passage because not only does it give us hope that God really is taking care of us but that this great big God is accessible to every person.

What program have you done with Cornerstone that you are proud of and why?

This year we had several teachers enroll in a National Teacher Certification Seminar. Everyone who attended became teacher certified on a national level. I am proud of our teachers that have shown a commitment to excellence.

What events or occasions does your church have coming up?

Nov. 20, progressive dinner.

What's your favorite day of the week and why?

Friday is my favorite day of the week because the day ends with "Family Night." Family Night is when we, as a family, watch videos, order pizza, play games or do some other family activity.

What's your favorite part of being a pastor?

What I enjoy most about being a pastor is working with people. I am thrilled when I have the opportunity to not only teach about God's word but to fellowship and befriend the people I serve. The greatest experience as a pastor is to introduce someone to my best friend -- Jesus Christ.

What hobbies do you have?

I am an outdoorsman. I belong to a Frontiersmen group that reenacts history: black powder, moccasins, flint and steel, and more. I also hike and climb mountains. I have been to the highest points of 40 states in the U.S. I also love to hunt.

Tell us about your family.

My wife's name is Lisa. My wife and I celebrate our 25th anniversary this month. We have two boys ages 5 and 12 (yes, we got a late start on having children, and I am tired!), and a beagle named Freckles. My family is very close, and we enjoy cuddling under a blanket on the floor watching movies, having game night and doing a host of other things together.

What else do you do besides serve as pastor?

I also work for the Cape Girardeau School District at the junior high as an assistant teacher (paraprofessional, working one on one with an autistic young man).

Do you have a prayer, psalm or verse you would like to give our readers for the day?

In our current times of economic difficulties, war and the unknown, people can be filled with fear, anger, hopelessness and anxiety. Our loving God and his son Jesus Christ are ready to fill people with hope, forgiveness, life, healing and peace. If you do not attend a local church, I encourage you to find a place of worship that you will enjoy. No, it's not religion that's important, but that God desires to have a relationship with you.